Sophia Blake (M. Scannell Phaneuf)

Hi, Mystery Lovers!

After a career teaching middle school English Language Arts, I decided retirement needed a little more excitement—so I started writing murder mysteries. They say, "write what you know," so my main character is a retired teacher, and I've had New Hampshire connections in my family for generations.

My Hartbridge Mysteries are set in a fictional New Hampshire town filled with good friends, local traditions, lots of homemade treats, and, unfortunately, more murders than any small town should reasonably experience. I love creating stories that blend mystery, humor, community, and a touch of small-town nostalgia.

Before becoming a novelist, I wrote only nonfiction and spent my days helping students find their own voices as writers. Now I spend mine figuring out whodunit, testing recipes, and keeping Sarah Thompson and friends one step ahead of the killer.

I live north of Boston with my husband, son, and dog.I'm a life-long singer and performer, and still enjoy that in a number of different venues. When I'm not writing or singing, you'll likely find me baking, gardening, crocheting, sewing, taking pictures, or making soap.

Hope you enjoy reading (and reviewing!) all of my Hartbridge Mystery books!

Sophia Blake (M. Scannell Phaneuf)